TUSK TUNES 10/18: Jessta James

Thursday

Oct 17, 2013 at 2:00 PMOct 17, 2013 at 2:04 PM

This week we spoke with Jessta James, a musical artist who blends country, rock and hip-hop. The Montana native will be making his debut in Tuscaloosa at Rhythm and Brews on Oct. 25 as part of an eight-stop Southeastern tour. Farmer's Daughter will open for James.

By Megan Miller | Special to Tusk

This week we spoke with Jessta James, a musical artist who blends country, rock and hip-hop. The Montana native will be making his debut in Tuscaloosa at Rhythm and Brews on Oct. 25 as part of an eight-stop Southeastern tour. Farmer's Daughter will open for James.

“I've loved music for as long as I can remember,” James wrote on his website's biography. His first name is a play on the word “jester.” “Some of my earliest influences were from my parents. My dad listened to a lot of outlaw country — Willie, Waylon, Hank Jr. and Johnny Cash — when I was growing up, as well as classic country, rock and Southern rock.”

He said he first began writing songs when he was 24 and found himself working wherever inspiration hit, including on his old construction jobs. “I wrote probably 150 songs over a year and a half,” he said. “If I had an idea while I was at work, I'd write it on a two by four or a piece of cardboard I'd ripped from a box of nails.”

After trying California, James found his collaborative partner in Atlanta-based songwriter and producer Dan Hannon. James discovered through artists such as Eric Church, Big & Rich and Brantley Gilbert that blends of hip-hop and rock could successfully flavor his country sounds. “They've paved the way for my music,” James said.

Q:How did the band get started?

A:I put the band together after I finished recording my album “Time To Get Right.”

Q:Who makes up the band and what do they contribute?

A:I have an eight piece band (including myself), so it's a big sound! We have Daniel Silvestri on bass guitar, Christopher Williams on drums, Patrick Stevens and Jeff Caughron on electric guitar, Michelle Lambert on fiddle, Dana King on vocals, Sam Koon on acoustic guitar and vocals and I'm lead vocals.

Q:How would you describe your sound to audiences who are unfamiliar with your music?

A:It's a true blend of country, rock and hip hop. Just all-around great music for everyone.

Q:Where have you been playing and what are some of your upcoming shows?

A:We've been mostly touring all over the southeast, but we'll be taking the show nationwide in 2014. The live show is explosive and the music is addicting.

Q:Do you have any recordings available? If so, where can they be found?

A:My debut album “Time To Get Right” is available online (iTunes, Amazon, etc.) as well as on my website www.jesstajames.com. Get this album in your hands ... I guarantee it will not come out of your player! Don't forget to hit me up on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Q:What are your short-term and long-term goals for your music?

A:2014 is gearing up to be an amazing year. I've been extremely blessed to share my music with the world and to make passionate and dedicated fans everywhere we've played. I'm looking forward to nationwide tours as well as the release of my second single to radio airwaves everywhere.